HRC57 - National statement - Item 2

Human Rights Council – 57th session
Item 2: Annual report of HC for Human Rights and report of OHCHR and SG
General Debate on High Commissioner’s Oral Update
Statement by Iceland
11 September 2024

Mr. President,

We thank the High Commissioner for his troubling account that highlights the increasingly precarious situation of human rights globally and the dire need for an immediate and collective response.

In every region of the world, grave human rights violations and abuses are taking place, resulting in irrevocable harm that disproportionately affects those who bear the least responsibility.

This dire situation must be addressed through the international multilateral system, which is the cornerstone for peace, stability and universal respect for human rights.

International cooperation, transparency, and dialogue are the means through which we generate positive change and strive to uphold the commitments we have made to promote and protect human rights and human dignity.

These commitments transcend borders and bind us together in our shared responsibility to uphold human rights, both within and between States. They unite us and cannot be undermined by deep-seated power dynamics, violence and injustices.  

Mr. President,

As we navigate turbulent times, we must lead with empathy, grounded in compassion and our shared humanity.

It is incumbent upon this Council to act decisively to counter prevailing threats to human rights. Only through solidarity and cooperation can we avert further erosion of human rights and create lasting change.

I thank you.